No wood for local biomass project

News — 01 February 2011

The Ministry of Northern Development, Mines and Forests has rejected a local proposal by Bryan Tardiff and Louie Ricci for a biomass project in the Ontario Wood Supply competition.

“We’re obviously very disappointed by the decision of the MNDMF but also look forward to seeing the proposal that was successful. If the successful proposal is in accordance with the requirements of the competition, as we understand it, then it must have the potential for major economic benefit to the Ignace area,” says Tardiff, co-owner of Far North Biomass.

“Our understanding is that the wood competition was intended to put the forest resources back to work in a more sustainable manner and must include components that benefit the immediate area economies, environment and First Nations.“

Tardiff says the competition was intended to remove status quo operations that weren’t using their fibre or at least not in a manner that was of benefit to the area. This would force licence holders to “use it or lose it”.

“I am unclear, at this time, as to why our proposal was unsuccessful or what our future is, but have requested a debriefing meeting so that the Ministry can explain the reasoning behind their decision,” says Tardiff. “The MNDMF decision possibly jeopardizes proposed district energy projects in several area communities some of which are well into their feasibility study process, others having just received funding to proceed with feasibility studies.”

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